Visitor Information Centres

You will always be greeted with a warm smile and a knowledgeable member of staff in our Visitor Information facilities. 

Make this your first stop when planning your trip - our staff are passionate about what they do and will share hints and tips on lesser-known beauty spots, hidden gems and places of interest, then it's time to explore and tick off your list as you go!

Each facility is housed in a unique setting. The Bangor office in the town centre is in the historic eye pleasing *Tower House which dates back to the 1600’s.

Please note, from 1 October Bangor Visitor Information Centre will be in the relocated to Tower House, 34 Quay Street nearby to Eisenhower Pier.

In Newtownards, the central location showcases a large gift shop of local crafts and souvenirs, and you will find the Portaferry Local Visitor Information Office in Exploris Aquarium (see their website for opening details).

Our Visitor Information staff can advise on how to make the most of your visit, be it a day trip or longer.

Notice of Visitor Information Centre closing for training:

Staff Training is taking place on Monday 5^th and Thursday 8^th October 2026. The VIC in each centre, Ards and Bangor, will open at 2pm on Monday 5^th and remain closed all day Thursday 8^th October.

Bank Holiday opening

Please note: 2026 Bank Holiday Opening Hours (10am – 4pm) apply over the following days:

Ards

St Patrick’s Day 17 March | Easter Monday and Tuesday 6 and 7 April | May Bank Holidays 4 and 25 May | Twelfth Celebrations - 14 July | August Bank Holiday 24 August 

Closure days  - Twelfth Celebations - 13 July | Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve (tbc), and 1 January 2027

Bangor

St Patrick’s Day 17 March | Easter Monday and Tuesday 6 and 7 April | May Bank Holidays 4 and 25 May | August Bank Holiday 24 August

Closure days  -  Twelfth Celebrations - 13 and 14 July | Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Eve (tbc), and 1 January 2027

Times updated in January 2026. These timings are subject to change. Please check in advance before travelling in case of changes to opening hours throughout the year.